Trajectories of loneliness during childhood and adolescence: Predictors and health outcomes. Issue 6 (7th March 2013) - Qualter, P.
Abstract : Highlights: ► We tested whether there are distinct developmental trajectories of loneliness. ► Four trajectories were identified based on loneliness reported from 7 to 17 years. ► Risk factors taken at age 5 could predict membership of the high stable trajectory. ► Long‐term loneliness was associated with health outcome at age 17. ► Our findings can inform preventive interventions that could be school‐based. Abstract: The present study employed latent growth mixture modeling to discern distinct trajectories of loneliness using data collected at 2‐year intervals from age 7–17 years ( N = 586) and examine whether measures taken at age 5 years were good predictors of group membership. Four loneliness trajectory classes were identified: (1) low stable (37% of the sample), (2) moderate decliners (23%), (3) moderate increasers (18%), and (4) relatively high stable (22%). Predictors at age 5 years for the high stable trajectory were low trust beliefs, low trusting, low peer acceptance, parent reported negative reactivity, an internalizing attribution style, low self‐worth, and passivity during observed play. The model also included outcome variables. We found that both the high stable and moderate increasing trajectories were associated with depressive symptoms, a higher frequency of visits to the doctor, and lower perceived general health at age 17. We discuss implications of findings for future empirical work.